In an effort to involve the community in the mission of Read 'n' Feed, and to provide an alternative method for patrons to clear accounts of fines, the library may run an annual Food for Fines program for a definitive period. This program will traditionally be run in December, and must be approved annually by the Library Board and its attorney.

During a Food for Fines program, patrons are allowed to clear overdue fines on delinquent accounts by donating non-perishable food items or personal essential items, in lieu of cash payment. Each donated item is worth $1 in fines, not to exceed $10 per account. All donated food items must be in good condition and not expired. Replacement costs, or charges for damaged materials, are not eligible to be settled through Food for Fines.

When the "payment" is taken into the Polaris system, the transaction is put through as a "waive," and "Food for Fines" is indicated in the notes field. This makes it possible to track if a patron has already used their Food for Fines benefit for the year.

All items donated will be distributed locally, from the Read 'n' Feed trailer.

Adopted by the Pendleton Community Public Library Board of Trustees
November 13, 2019